What climatic and landform processes cause orographic rainfall to occur as compared to the processes that cause the rain shadow effect in certain areas of the American West?

What will be an ideal response?


Orographic rainfall occurs on the windward side of mountains (generally the western side), where, as air masses are forced upwards, they cool and can no longer hold as much moisture. Rain shadows generally exist on the leeward side of mountains where air masses tend to be dry and warm as they descend.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences